GiftHolidayGuide
SHOP LOCAL AND SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES IN AND AROUND KNOXVILLE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
FEATURES
28 EXQUISITE & UNIQUE
Ben Caldwell designs one-ofa-kind, functional metalwork with the intention of bringing beauty into the lives and homes of others.
10 HOLIDAY SHOPS
Support local businesses in and around Knoxville this Holiday Season and enter to win $500!
39 REMINDER TO WOMEN
Catherine Porth of “Let Her Speak” reminds us that we do not need to EARN rest or joy this Holiday Season.
51 CHRISTMAS ADVENT CALENDER
Support local businesses in and around Knoxville this Holiday Season and enter to win $500!
50 E.TN CHILDRENS HOSPITAL’S NEWEST AMBASSADOR
Meet Kamerie, who has faced many life-threatening and developmental challenges during her young life
49 FANTASY OF TREES 40TH ANNIVERSARY
East TN Children’s Hospital celebrates 40 years of their most beloved fundraisers of the year.
8 FROM THE EDITOR
While the Holidays are some of the happiest times of the year, keep these things in consideration.
44 HOLIDAY RECIPES EVERYONE WILL LOVE
From appetizers to dessert, you will want to try these out at your next Holiday gathering!
36 INSTANT JOY
Simple ways to feel happier in the next five minutes.
from the editor
During the holidays, many of us focus on the magic of the season—beautiful decorations, festive food, and time with loved ones. But it’s crucial to remember those who may be suffering from depression or contemplating suicide. This issue has recently affected my life deeply.
A close friend lost her father, a beloved figure in their community, to suicide. After his wife passed away from cancer just a year ago, he struggled with deep-seated depression. Although he appeared good-humored, still going above and beyond for others, he was hiding his own pain. He often made comments about not wanting to continue, and people would make suggestions to seek help, but he refused, insisting he was fine and so they dismissed it. Now my friend has lost their father and the community has a lost a pillar.
I urge you to pay attention to those around you who might be masking their struggles. They might not openly express their pain, especially after significant life changes. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that there is hope and support available.
TN RESOURCES AVAILABLE:
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for live chat
• Tennessee Statewide Crisis Line: 1-855-CRISIS-1 (855-274-7471)or text TN to 741741
• www.tspn.org
Photography by Saray Taylor-Roman
Holiday Edition 2024 Volume 10 + Issue 4
publisher CAJUN GRAHAM
graphic design & content creators
LUCAS FERNANDES
MICHELLE JOHNSON
contributing writers & photographers
ALYSSA MARTIN
CATHERINE PORTH
MICHELLE JOHNSON
SARAY TAYLOR-ROMAN
advertising sales
TERRY PATTERSON
CAJUN GRAHAM
social media
FELICIA SLATTERY
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Hushh has always been dedicated to uncovering “Knoxville’s Best Kept Secrets,” and we’re excited to share those hidden gems with you!
In these challenging times, it’s more important than ever to rally behind our local small businesses, not just in Knoxville, but in the surrounding communities as well. Supporting these local treasures helps strengthen our economy and fosters a sense of community that we all cherish.
This holiday season, we’ve explored the area and discovered some truly amazing places that we can’t wait for you to visit. Each of these businesses offers something special, and we encourage you to support them as you shop for gifts, indulge in delicious treats, or simply enjoy a delightful outing with friends and family.
To make this even more exciting, we want to hear about your experiences! When you visit any of the businesses featured here, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook. Don’t forget to tag the business and us! By doing so, you’ll enter for a chance to win $500 to help brighten your holiday season. Let’s celebrate our local favorites together and make this holiday one to remember!
SeaLife Micro 3.0 Dual Beam Kit:
*Camera is leak-proof with no O-rings to lube or maintain, so there is never a worry about flooding the camera. SONY® 16MP CMOS sensor, and vibrant 4K Ultra HD video. Kit includes the Sea Dragon 3000SF Pro Dual Beam Photo-Video light, the perfect all-around photo, video, and dive light. Together they make the perfect duo! www.skiscuba.com
Holiday Guest Towels Set with basket
Three piece towel gift set with basket features three Holiday guest towels! Tied with green ribbon in a reusable basket! $18.50
www.figandcompany.com
Pause,
www.allyallskincare.com
BloodSoapOrange
Knoxville Color Map - Print
This map includes all the best spots in Knoxville plus the awesome Knoxvillians who helped bring it to what it is today. All your favorite Knoxville symbols and icons are hand drawn in gorgeous colors and whimsical shapes on this spectacular map. $20.00. www.pariswoodhull.com
Earrings
Hexagon Stud Earring Set with Emerald Clay and 14k Gold Plating. $26.00 shopcoldgold.com
Mascot Dangles
Minding My Own Crochet Business Enamel Mug. Every crochet business owner needs coffee! It’s lightweight, durable and multifunctional. Use it for your favorite beverage or a hot meal. $12.99 . www.bagsbybento.com
Tote | Crochet Pattern
The fun texture of the camel stitch in this pattern is the perfect way to protect your laptop AND show off your creativity! $3.99 www.bagsbybento.com
TN Mascot Dangles- 18k Gold Plated. Perfect for Vols fans! $20.00 www.minimaloptimist.com
Vase Bug Pottery
This tall thin vase has linear carved ginkgo leaves meeting in the middle to cutouts revealing the details of the leaves. $135.00 www.bugpottery.com
Lenoir City
Cakes
Let’s make your dream cake! Brianne and Taryn are committed to transforming your ideas into stunning, delicious creations that reflect your unique style and personality—ensuring your guests will be raving about them long after the celebration! www.sweetharmonious.com
Coffees
Buttermoon boasts notes of sweet caramel and roasted nut in our balanced blend and is perfect for any occasion. Buttermoon is a flagship flavor, crafted by Lambert’s Master Blender 8 years ago. $13.75 www.uglymugcoffee.com
The bohemian spirit and undeniable beauty of this arrangement are hard to resist. Pinks, yellow, and greens combine making an arrangement that is festive and fun. This arrangement is coupled with a bath soak from 1818 Farms. $49.98 www.broadwayflowershop.com
Mosaic Vanilla Syrup (Concentrate). Natural Vanilla Bean Flavor. One Bottle = 2 bottles of regular syrup. Use 1/2 as much. $18.95
www.uglymugcoffee.com
Syrup
Farragut
Snack Box
Enjoy one of our pre-made charcuterie boxes to-go as a meal for one (or snacks for two). Includes a sampling of cheeses selected by our cheesemongers and paired with charcuterie meat, crackers, cornichons, olives, dried fruit, nuts and chocolate. $20.00 www.euphoriccheese.com
Bath and Body Skincare Box
Bycicles
Giant ATX. From parkways to paths and everything in between, this versatile bike can add some spice to your commute or fitness routine. With its flat handlebar, upright positioning, and suspension fork, you’re free to ride different types of terrain with confidence and control.. $475.00 www.hurricanecycles.com
Bath and Body Skincare Gift Box For Men and Women, Special soothing and massaging Set Natural refreshing Spa set for Men or Women in Eucalyptus scent, ideal for chilling out and relaxing. $63.00 www.crunchymamabox.com
Cleaning your dog’s teeth is a must. When food particles cling to your dog’s teeth and gums, plaque buildup will form, causing inflamed gums. $19.99 www.crunchymamabox.com
Large Plus Charcuterie Box
The perfect collection of cheeses and more for 13-16 people. Enjoy a delectable variety of seven different cheeses, charcuterie meat, crackers, jam, fruit and veggies and a other specialty snacks that are sure to please. With our Large Plus Charcuterie Box, there is something for everyone! $160.00 www.euphoriccheese.com
Maryville
Anset Jacket
A flattering and versatile jacket, ideal for transitional layering. Varley - Gabriella Sweat $128.00 www.shop.dandylionsgifts.com
Coffee
Vienna Coffee CO. Highlands Blend. Tasting Notes: full-bodied, chocolate, caramel. $15.00 viennacoffeecompany.com
Book
Get in on the Christmas cheer with Dr. Seuss’s iconic holiday classic starring the Grinch and Cindy-Lou Who--guaranteed to grow your heart three sizes! Every Who down in Who-ville liked Christmas a lot...but the Grinch, who lived just north of Who-ville, did NOT! $15.80 www. bookshop.org
Scent candle
Invite the Fall season in with Voluspa’s Spiced Pumpkin Latte collection. Like cozying up with your favorite drink, this collection evokes a familiar yet refined scent. $14.00 | www.shop.dandylionsgifts.com
t - Shirt
Maryville Peace. Hand screen printed on unisex soft style lightweight t-shirts. Show your hometown pride with this fun design! Go Maryville!$25.00 www.865studioshirts.com
Focaccia Bread Service (Vegetarian). Roasted bulb of garlic, basil pesto, and goat cheese. $12.00 www.tmt.spotapps.co
Focaccia
North Shore
Steak
Northshore Brasserie. Steak Frites. NY Steak AU Poivre $45.00 www.northshorebrasserie.com
Fried Pickles
Our spicy pickles, hand breaded. Served with garlic peppercorn dressing. $12.00 www.corner16.com
Salmon
Baby Kale Salmon Caesar. Fresh salmon, baby kale, cabbage, parmesan cheese, homemade croutons, and Caesar dressing. $20.00 www.sullivansrockyhill.com
top
cheddar cheese, homemade bacon jam, and onion ring. $16.00 www.sullivansrockyhill.com
Chocolate Cranberry Banana Bread. Warm chocolate ganache, vanilla ice cream. $12.00 www. fire-smoke.com
Collectibles
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
NCAA 1969 Throwback Mini Helmet $31.99 www.fangearbarn.com
Hat
PGA Tour Standard Striped Adjustable Aqua Golf Hat $12.99 www.fangearbarn.com Appalachian
An Appalachian take on the traditional stir fry dish. Including a bourbon barrelaged Worcestershire base, this dish consists of basmati rice, local vegetables, jalapeño hot sauce, local honey, and scallions. $17.00 www. thefireandsalt.com
Floral
Exuberance
These warm-colored blossoms are the embodiment of liveliness. Orange gerberas shine as an assortment of fuchsia stock, orange alstroemeria and miniature spray roses are adorned with greenery. $65.00 www.oakridgetnflorist.com
Petite Gold Lantern. Beautiful golden lantern to display a tealight or votive, or a favorite Holiday ornament! $12.95 www. figandcompany
SportDiver Ultra Smartphone Housing
Experience unforgettable underwater adventures with your smartphone and the SeaLife SportDiver housing. Ergonomic design and intuitive controls make it easy to use while producing amazing results. The new SportDiver Ultra housing works with almost all Android models and iPhone® 8 through iPhone® 15 Pro Max. www.skiscuba.com
Reserved For The Dog” pillow, 24. This “Reserved For The Dog” cotton pillow measures approx 24” X 14”and of course, is more than special for who loves your puppy like us. $29.50 www.figandcompany.com
EXQUISITE
& UNIQUE
Ben Caldwell of Ben & Lael shares his inspiration of the Appalachian Trail in his timeless and functional art.
en Caldwell is a distinguished artist specializing in the creation of functional and timeless metalwork. His artistry seamlessly blends practicality with elegance, resulting in exquisite serving pieces and tableware crafted from copper and silver. With a lifelong passion for the natural world, Ben found profound inspiration in nature after completing a hike along the entire Appalachian Trail. This transformative experience deepened his connection to the environment and fueled his desire to incorporate its beauty into his work.
Growing up surrounded by the rich history of American silver further shaped Ben's artistic journey, steeping him in the classical proportions and forms that define this timeless craft. The influences of nature and historical artistry converge in his designs, which retain a strong historical foundation while also exuding a modern, organic sensibility. Each one-of-a-kind piece is meticulously handcrafted, employing traditional metalsmithing techniques such as chasing, planishing, repoussé, and the raising and sinking of bowls.
Ben's formal education includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University, complemented by studies at Harvard University and the Studio School of New York. Following his academic journey, he began his professional career as a custom luthier and drum maker. His path took a significant turn when he entered an apprenticeship with Terry Talley, a nationally acclaimed master metalsmith. Approaching Ben's father during a challenging time, Talley expressed his wish to pass on the nearly lost craft of metalsmithing to the next generation, knowing that Ben possessed the artistic talent to carry on this tradition.
“Copper is classified as a noble metal, which is included with silver, platinum and gold.”
Honored by this opportunity, Ben made the life-changing decision to leave his job in 1999 and train with Terry full-time.
Thanks to his classical education and the exceptional guidance of his mentor, Ben quickly honed his skills, even taking the initiative to invent, design, and build many of his own tools. With the unwavering support of his phenomenal teacher, encouraging parents, and his amazing wife Lael, he founded Ben & Lael Inc., where he began creating and selling custom, one-of-a-kind artworks in copper, silver, and enamel. Since then, Ben has received numerous awards and has been featured in a variety of prominent national publications, including *Oprah*, *Southern Living*, *Victoria*, *Cottage Journal*, *Garden & Gun*, *Southern Home*, and many others. His work has also been highlighted on various national and regional television programs and radio interviews.
Ben's artistry has been showcased in several esteemed exhibitions, including the "Best of Tennessee Craft Exhibition" at the Customs House Museum, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, "Monumental Enamels" at Tower 49 in New York City, the Denver Art Museum, and Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville, TN. Notable commissions include the awards for the 2017 Ellis Island Family Heritage Awards, bespoke pieces for the
governor of Tennessee—including an impressive eight-foot copper flag sculpture that was removed during renovations of the governor’s mansion—and a wedding gift for musical icons Vince Gill and Amy Grant. One of his ladles even holds a cherished spot in Martha Stewart’s personal kitchen!
Today, Ben continues to create remarkable pieces and travels across the country to showcase his work at various shows. He is passionate about sharing
his love of craftsmanship with others, dedicating time to teach local classes, provide demonstrations at events, and mentor interns and apprentices. Ben states, “I feel a responsibility to share the dying art of coppersmithing with all who are interested in learning. Some are curious about how the process works in creating my pieces and some will go on to use these skills in their own work, but all will walk away with an appreciation for the art itself.”
TREAT YOURSELF
You should take pride in the smallest of accomplishments. Celebrate your daily victories, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Did you make your bed in the morning or check off an item on your to-do list? Awesome! Treat yourself to a yummy cup of coffee or a soothing face mask. A reward is an easy pick-me-up when you’re overwhelmed.
CALL A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER
Pick up the phone and call a family member or friend for a quick chat. A familiar voice can drastically reduce stress levels, and this tiny dose of connection with someone in your corner will leave you with renewed energy and motivation. Plus, you’ll probably make the other person’s day—it’s a win-win.
Instant Joy
Simple ways to feel happier in the next five minutes.
Happiness is a state of mind that we all crave, but amid the hustle and bustle, finding joy can sometimes feel like mission impossible. Luckily, there are things you can do to find happiness in just five minutes. Here are five effective strategies to get a much-needed (and well-deserved!) burst of bliss.
SMILE OR LAUGH
It’s true: laughter is the best medicine. Laughing is a natural mood-enhancer that triggers the release of endorphins, AKA happy hormones. These endorphins help alleviate pain and contribute to an overall sense of positivity and well-being. While you may not want to, find a reason to smile or laugh. Read a witty book, watch a hilarious video, or stream a funny TV show, and instantly lift your spirits.
PRACTICE GRATITUDE
It’s common to get caught up in what isn’t going well and forget about all the good that surrounds us. The next time you need a boost, take a break and acknowledge the positive aspects of your life. Write down three things you’re thankful for, reflect on the great moments of the day, or meditate. Practicing gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have, and is sure to bring a smile to your face.
SOAK UP SOME VITAMIN D
Feeling down? Don’t hibernate—step outside and soak up the sunshine. The sun is an excellent source of vitamin D, which is responsible for your serotonin levels. If serotonin levels are low, your emotions probably are, too. A few minutes in the sun can go a long way toward beating the winter blues, even on the coldest and gloomiest days.
What I want in my life is to be willing to be dazzled, to cast aside the weight of facts and maybe even to float a little above this difficult world.
- Mary Oliver
You
DO NOT Need to EARN Rest or Joy:
A reminder to women during the Holiday Season
The holidays are often painted to be a picture-perfect season of joy - relaxing around the house with a cup of cocoa, happily surrounded by family and friends. And while we may indulge ourselves in this season’s Hallmark movies or find moments of holiday cheer where we can, the reality is that this isn’t what the holidays look like for many people - especially women.
Many of us are putting in longer hours at work in anticipation of logging off during the holidays or prepping for kids being home on winter break. You may find yourself being the person shopping for all the gifts, arranging the holiday gatherings, prepping for visitors, setting up all the decorations, and meal planning — while also trying to live your day-to-day life.
The holidays, instead of being a time of rest, often become a marathon of stress, with little room for women to relax and enjoy the season themselves. All of this weight that we carry year-after-year, generation-after-generation to make the holidays perfect for our family and friends is the phenomenon of unseen (and often times unappreciated) labor.
But here’s an important truth: you DO NOT need to earn rest or joy during the holidays (or any time of year for that matter). These aren’t rewards for
accomplishing a certain number of tasks or reaching a level of holiday perfection. They are essential parts of life that you deserve, simply because you exist.
Rest Is a Necessity, Not a Privilege
A common misconception, especially among women, is that rest must be earned. We tell ourselves we’ll relax when everything on the to-do list is done, when the house is clean, when the kids are settled, or when the meal is prepared. But this mindset is both draining and unsustainable.
Rest is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. You don’t need to finish your holiday preparations before you allow yourself to rest. You don’t need to earn joy by completing tasks or pleasing others. Joy and rest are human needs, vital for your well-being. You deserve them, no matter how much or how little you’ve accomplished.
So this holiday season, let’s normalize prioritizing rest and mental health in this most demanding time of the year. To help you reclaim your time during the holidays, and to help you communicate to your loved ones how they can help, here are two lists for how 1) you can implement practices to reduce your stress and improve your well-being and 2) you can share with others the best ways they can support you during the holidays:
Tips for Resting and Reducing Stress During the Holidays:
1. Set Boundaries: You don’t have to do everything. Set limits on what you will and won’t do. Delegate tasks when possible. It’s okay to say no to certain gatherings or activities that drain you instead of bringing you joy.
2. Plan Rest into Your Schedule: Just like you schedule holiday shopping or family dinners, schedule time to rest. Even if it’s just an hour to enjoy a cup of tea, read a book, or take a nap, make sure rest is a non-negotiable part of your holiday season.
3.Turn Off Notifications: Social media and work emails can be a major source of stress during the holidays. Give yourself permission to disconnect. Turn off notifications, even if it’s just for a few hours a day, and be present with your loved ones or with yourself.
4.Let Go of Perfection: The holidays don’t have to be perfect. If the decorations aren’t flawless or the meal isn’t Instagram-worthy, it doesn’t matter. What matters is the love and effort you’ve put into making the holidays special, not the picture-perfect results.
5.Ask for Help: You don’t have to do it all alone. Ask your family members, friends, or partner for help. Whether it’s preparing meals, wrapping gifts, or decorating the house, sharing the workload will ease your burden and create more time for you to relax.
Tips for Families to Support the Women in Their Lives During the Holidays:
1. Offer Help Without Being Asked: Instead of waiting to be asked for help, STEP UP! Offer to handle certain tasks like shopping, cooking, or cleaning (especially the cleaning). Taking initiative shows that you recognize the hard work she’s putting in.
2. Share the Load: Divide the responsibilities equally. From gift shopping to meal prep, make sure everyone in the household is contributing in a meaningful way.
3. Encourage Her to Rest: Remind the women in your life that they don’t need to earn rest or joy. Encourage them to take time for themselves, even if it means postponing certain tasks or simplifying holiday plans.
4.Celebrate Her Efforts: Often, the work women do during the holidays goes unnoticed. Take the time to express appreciation and gratitude for all they do to make the holidays special. A simple “thank you” can go a long way.
Tips for Families to Support the Women in Their Lives During the Holidays:
1. Offer Help Without Being Asked: Instead of waiting to be asked for help, STEP UP! Offer to handle certain tasks like shopping, cooking, or cleaning (especially the cleaning). Taking initiative shows that you recognize the hard work she’s putting in.
2. Share the Load: Divide the responsibilities equally. From gift shopping to meal prep, make sure everyone in the household is contributing in a meaningful way.
3. Encourage Her to Rest: Remind the women in your life that they don’t need to earn rest or joy. Encourage them to take time for themselves, even if it means postponing certain tasks or simplifying holiday plans.
4.Celebrate Her Efforts: Often, the work women do during the holidays goes unnoticed. Take the time to express appreciation and gratitude for all they do to make the holidays special. A simple “thank you” can go a long way.
A Reminder for Every Woman Reading This:
As Maya Angelou beautifully said, “Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for.” You deserve to rest, recharge, and enjoy the season - without guilt, without pressure, and without conditions.
Despite the weight we all are carry this time of year, I hope that you bring these truths with you into the holidays and embrace them. Afterall, there would be no holiday season without women.
So, be kind to yourself, find time to rest, and cut yourself some dang slack!
Catherine Porth is the Founder & Executive Director of Let Her Speak. Her mission is to improve and grow opportunities for women, one inspiring story at a time. If you are interested in learning more about or getting involved in our community, contact her at catherine@letherspeakusa.org.
Instagram: @letherspeakusa LinkedIn: /catherine-porth
HoHoHoliday Savings!
SAVORY TO SWEET
After such a long and crazy year for everyone, the holidays are finally near. This time of year usually the cookies and cakes take center stage but we wanted to give you some options to wow your guests with this holiday season. Enjoy!
Spinach Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers
INGREDIENTS
1 (10-oz.) bag frozen spinach, thawed, liquid squeezed out
6 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 c. shredded mozzarella
3/4 c. canned artichoke hearts, drained, chopped
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
All-purpose flour, for surface
2 sheets frozen puff pastry (from a 17.3-oz. box), thawed according to package directions
12 skewers
6 slices Provolone
DIRECTIONS
Step 1
Preheat oven to 400°. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment. In a large bowl, combine spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and artichokes; season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 2
On a lightly floured surface, roll puff pastry sheets to 15” x 12” rectangle about 1/8” thick, trimming if needed.
Step 3
Spread spinach mixture in an even layer on one pastry sheet. Top with other
pastry sheet, lightly pressing to adhere. With the long end facing you, cut out 12 (1”-thick) strips.
Step 4
Working one strip at a time, fold dough back and forth in a zig-zag motion, with each layer getting narrower than the last, to create a tree shape. Arrange filling side up. Skewer each tree from bottom and through top, making sure about 1/2” of the skewer shows at the top. You may have to separate the layers after skewering so they aren’t smushed together. Arrange on prepared sheets.
Step 5
Bake trees until puff pastry is golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool slightly.
Step 6
Stack 2 slices of Provolone. Cut out small stars with a small cookie cutter or paring knife to get 4 stars; repeat with remaining Provolone. Carefully skewer stars onto top of trees.
bourbon balls
Bourbon Balls
Ingredients
2 c. (180 g.) raw unsalted pecans
2 c. (130 g., about 36) vanilla wafers
1 c. (115 g.) powdered sugar
6 Tbsp. (3 oz.) bourbon whiskey
2 Tbsp. maple syrup
2 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/3 c. decorative sparkling sugar
Directions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°. Spread pecans on a rimmed baking sheet and toast until fragrant and golden in the center, 7 to 9 minutes. Let cool.
Step 2
In a food processor, pulse toasted pecans and vanilla wafers until they’re the texture of coarse bread crumbs (a few larger chunks of pecans are okay). Add powdered sugar, bourbon, maple syrup, cocoa, and salt and process until combined. Transfer bourbon ball mixture to a medium bowl; cover and refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.
Step 3
Pour decorative sugar into a small flat container. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
Step 4
Using a tablespoon measuring spoon, portion and roll balls to 1” in diameter. Roll balls in decorative sugar, gently pressing so sugar adheres, and arrange on prepared sheet.
Step 5
Refrigerate bourbon balls at least 1 hour to set up.
Step 6
Make Ahead: Bourbon balls can be made 3 weeks ahead. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate, or freeze up to 1 month.
NO CHURN CARAMEL APPLE ICE CREAM
INGREDIENTS
3 large slices leftover apple pie
1 1/4 c. heavy cream
2/3 c. sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp. apple pie spice mix)
2 Tbsp. store-bought or homemade caramel sauce, divided
DIRECTIONS
Step 1
Refrigerate the large bowl of a stand mixer and a 9” x 5” loaf pan until cold
Step 2
Meanwhile, separate apple filling from crust from each pie slice. Coarsely chop filling and crust, keeping them separate.
Step 3
Fit stand mixer with the whisk attachment. In chilled bowl, beat cream, milk,
INGREDIENTS
1 tube refrigerated crescent rolls
24 mini hot dogs
1/4 c. Dijon mustard
Egg wash
2 tsp. poppy seeds
Rosemary sprigs (for decoration)
Ketchup, for serving
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 375° F. Line a large baking pan with parchment paper. Slice crescent rolls lengthwise into thirds. Brush all over with dijon mustard. Place a mini hot dog on the thick end of each triangle and roll up.
Step 2
Arrange the pigs in a blanket, side by side, in a circle on the baking sheet. They should pigs in a blanket wreath
be touching! Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with salt and poppy seeds.
Step 3
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the crescents are golden. Let cool for at least 20 minutes.
Step 4
Lay rosemary sprigs around the inside of the wreath and place a small bowl filled with ketchup in the center.
and spice mix on high speed until soft peaks form, 6 to 7 minutes. Using a spatula, gently fold in one-third of apple pie filling.
Step 4
In chilled loaf pan, spread bottom with about half of cream mixture; smooth with a spatula. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon caramel sauce in an “S” shape. Using a toothpick, drag caramel in the opposite direction to create a swirl. Top with remaining apple pie filling. Spread remaining cream mixture on top, then repeat swirling process with remaining 1 tablespoon caramel. Top with chopped apple pie crust.
Step 5
Tightly cover tightly with plastic wrap, pressing directly on surface of ice cream, and freeze at least 6 hours or up to 2 weeks.
East TN Children’s Hospital 40th Anniversary of Fantasy of Trees
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital is looking forward to our biggest fundraiser of the year, Fantasy of Trees. This year marks the 40th anniversary of this beloved family tradition. This spectacular five-day holiday celebration will be November 27th – December 1st showcasing hundreds of sparkling, designer-decorated Christmas trees, a variety of festive decorations and holiday gift shops with unique items for everyone on your audience’s gift list.
Our Gala Among the Trees presented by TennesSEED Erosion Control will be back this year on November 26th. Wear your holiday best, enjoy delicious food, and celebrate an elegant night among the trees to benefit East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. This is a holiday experience you will not want to miss! Enjoy a stroll through the glittering trees, live music, and a silent auction to help us raise funds for East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. Guests will have early access to purchase trees and other holiday items at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Fantasy of
Trees presented by Axle Logistics.
With over 123,600 unique patient encounters annually, East Tennessee Children’s Hospital relies on community support to help us provide exceptional care for the patients and families we serve. All funds raised at the 2024 Gala Among the Trees and at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Fantasy of Trees will support our area of greatest need fund. From diapers for our smallest, most fragile patients to large pieces of equipment like a new MRI machine, every dollar positively impacts a child’s life and helps meet the medical needs of the children in our region and beyond. With your help, Children’s Hospital can continue to take care of our future, one child at a time with your support and generosity.
We would love to provide your organization with Fantasy of Trees show tickets in exchange for in-kind advertising leading up to the event. If you’re interested in supporting Fantasy of Trees, please reply to this email or call me at (865) 541-8488.
hushh heroes
Meet East Tennessee’s Children Hospital Newest Ambassador
Meet Kamerie, who has faced many life-threatening and developmental challenges during her young life
Anitra and Damarcus Littlejohn were excited to welcome another baby girl to their family. However, excitement quickly turned into concern as Anitra had to be admitted to an adult facility for a high-risk pregnancy due to her baby girl not growing well.
During her three-week stay, Anitra was introduced to a neonatologist from East Tennessee Children’s Hospital (ETCH) to discuss what a premature birth could potentially look like. While the conversation was scary, Anitra and her husband were reassured by the honest and transparent ETCH care team.
Later that month, Anitra went in for a routine ultrasound visit only to be immediately rushed into surgery for an emergency C-section and then to watch her newborn baby girl being resuscitated. The team at Children’s Hospital was there and ready to transport Kamerie to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where the smallest and sickest babies receive the around-the-clock care they need. Kamerie was born weighing only 1 pound and 5 ounces. Work began to save her life.
Over the next 384 days, Kamerie remained in the NICU fighting to stay alive. As an extremely small infant born early at 28 gestational weeks, she battled pneumonia, underwent blood transfusions and breathed with the support of a ventilator. After three months in the NICU, Kamerie had only gained one pound.
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital doctors and nurses knew something else was wrong, and they were determined to find an answer for the Littlejohns. After genetic testing, it was found that Kamerie had 18p Deletion Syndrome, a genetic condition that occurs when all or part of the short arm of chromosome 18 is deleted. This extremely rare genetic condition affects only 1 in every 50,000 babies.
Despite this diagnosis providing answers, the Littlejohns still had much work to do. Kamerie still struggled with every breath and needed a tracheostomy to permanently support her breathing. She celebrated her first birthday in the NICU surrounded by her
parents, big sister Emerie and care team that had become like family to them.
After spending over a year in the NICU, the Littlejohn family was finally able to bring Kamerie home. Unlike bringing home their first daughter, the family left with a mobile intensive care unit to care for Kamerie but felt prepared and confident in their abilities since they were trained by the ETCH clinicians during their time at the hospital. Today, Kamerie is thriving, and Children’s Hospital has become a second home to them. She sees a variety of specialists across the hospital’s growing system and are grateful to know they have the best possible care for every step of their journey right in their backyard.
Generous donors like you make it possible for our team to provide hope and healing to patients and their families every day. This season, please consider giving a monetary donation to help East Tennessee Children’s Hospital provide more miracles for children like Kamerie!
Go ice skating with your family or friends. Make a DIY wreath for your front door.
Write a letter to Santa and share your Christmas wishes.
Bake and decorate cookies with your loved ones.
Decorate your home with festive lights. Attend a Christmas concert.
Make a homemade hot chocolate Wrap presents and make it extra special.
Enjoy a cozy night in with your loved ones.
Make a homemade gift for someone special. Do something kind for a stranger. Spend the day showing gratitude for the things you have.
Watch your favorite Christmas movie.
Read a classic Christmas story with your family.
Make a gingerbread house with your kids.
Donate toys to a local charity or shelter.
Donate clothes to a local charity or shelter.
Go ice skating with your family or friends. Listen to your favorite Christmas songs.
Snuggle up with a cup of hot cocoa.
Have a holiday themed photo shoot with your family.
Have a Christmas themed game with your family Write a gratitude list for the year.
Sing Christmas carols.
